Hello, Rachel, and welcome back to planDisney! We always love when you cruise by.
I've done both Disney ground transportation as well as driving in and parking at the port for my sailings on Disney Cruise Line, and there are plusses to either option. I'll do my best to share what, in my experience, have been the benefits of Disney ground transportation versus parking on my own, but at the end of the day, you'll make the decision that makes the most sense for your family!
Disney Cruise Line offers
ground transportation to and from any
Disney World hotel to Port Canaveral, as well as to and from the cruise terminal to the Orlando Airport. You must reserve your family's spot on the bus in advance by adding to your cruise reservation, which does include a per-person fee. What I love about ground transportation through Disney is, after reserving your spot on the bus, it's nothing but smooth sailing from there as you'll be completely taken care of from start to finish. No GPS needed. I also enjoy the classic Disney movies and Disney trivia during my bus ride, which always gives a little jump start to my vacation!
Then, when your Disney Cruise has (sadly) come to an end, the Disney Cruise Line buses will be waiting for you immediately after you disembark with well-marked signage directing you to your designated destination. You'll check in with the Crew Member there who'll take care of your bags and get you on the next bus, which is usually ready to ride. I do love taking advantage of ground transportation with Disney. It feels like an extension of my vacation, because everything is all taken care of for me, just like on the ship.
One of the benefits, however, of driving in with a car is the option to sightsee in and around the area before or after your Disney Cruise. My family enjoys the opportunity to stretch out our vacation just a little more by taking in a few local sights or attractions before we fly back home.
If you do decide to go with the parking option, know that currently at Port Canaveral no reservations are currently needed, and you will pay the daily rate when you arrive. Make sure you have a credit card available, as paying with cash is not accepted. Find the terminal address, and other helpful parking details,
on the Disney Cruise Line website under "Arrival Information."
I hope this has been helpful information for you, Rachel, and you feel like you're in a better position to make a decision that's the best fit for your family. But no matter how you end up getting to your Disney Cruise, what matters most is that you're there - having an adventure of a lifetime. I sincerely wish you the most magical voyage.
McCayla